Comic Review // Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures, Vol. 1
I'm intrigued by trying some High Republic-era stories. Where better to start than Volume One? That's right—I managed to start at the beginning for once!
Title: Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures, Vol. 1
Author: Daniel José Older
Illustrator: Harvey Tolibao
Blurb: Two hundred years before the events of the Skywalker Saga, the galaxy is experiencing unparalleled peace--until a new enemy threatens everything the Jedi have built.
In the days of the High Republic, the Jedi are at the height of their power. But the emergence of the piratical, anarchic Nihil proves that even the most successful peace is fragile, and the Jedi's influence is neither as pervasive nor as benevolent as they would believe.
Now Lula, Farzal, and Qort, inexperienced Jedi Padawans, must help the inhabitants of Trymant IV in the wake of a Nihil attack. All the while, they'll face suspicion and outright opposition from a group of subversive citizens who resent and fear the Jedi. Two of those citizens, Zeen and Kriz, will have to decide whether to accept the Padawans' aid or try to save the day on their own.
Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures is part of a broader publishing initiative exploring a mysterious, bygone era of the Galactic Republic through comics and prose.
Collects Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures issues #1-5.
Format: 128 pages, Paperback buy via my Affiliate Amazon store
Review
It turns out this is a prequel to an upcoming novel I've just finished called Race to Crashpoint Tower. Maybe I will bring that review forward so I don't forget. It seems this series of titles is heavily aimed at Middle-graders/teenagers, which means it is easy to read and visually engaging. One thing Disney can do well is lock in an audience with bright, bold imagery.
It does suffer in parts, though; I find the fight scenes dull and safe. Towards the end, it did seem to lose its way before refinding itself. Ultimately, I enjoyed reading the comic and would happily read it again, which is a definite win. The fact that it is also linked to Crashpoint helps me enjoy it. It's a solid start to the series, and I am now intrigued to see where it all goes.
Overall, it is aimed at a younger audience; if you can get by that, you will enjoy the read. Basically, go in to enjoy an easy read rather than the hopes of an epic new arc to the Star Wars setting.
Cheers for checking in!
